ANXIETY

This study tested a new counseling program called THRIVE for hospitalized people with HIV who had fallen out of regular care. The program used Acceptance and Commitment Therapy to help patients overcome avoidance, stigma, and mental health barriers that keep them from attending a…

This study tested whether a combined program of mental health therapy and job coaching helps people on sick leave due to conditions like depression, anxiety, or stress return to work faster than standard care. It involved 900 adults in Denmark who were receiving sickness benefits…

This study tested a new program in HIV clinics to better identify and treat substance use, depression, and anxiety. Over 10,000 HIV-positive adults used tablets to screen for these issues during routine visits. Those who screened positive could then receive counseling from a beha…

This Stanford University study aimed to understand which brain circuits are involved in anxiety and depression. Researchers enrolled 167 adults experiencing symptoms and offered them an 8-week treatment course of either medication (Pramipexole) or magnetic brain stimulation (rTMS…

This study tested whether combining acupuncture and yoga with a doctor's plan could help people aged 65 and older safely reduce their use of common anxiety and sleep medications. Over 12 weeks, 23 participants worked with a nurse to lower their medication dose while also receivin…

This small pilot study tested whether a brief cognitive behavioral therapy program could help older adults safely reduce their long-term use of benzodiazepine medications (like Xanax or Valium) for anxiety and insomnia. Researchers worked with 17 adults aged 55+ who were prescrib…

This study tested whether adding an antidepressant to standard psoriasis medication works better than the psoriasis medication alone for people who have both psoriasis and depression or anxiety. Forty adults with moderate-to-severe psoriasis and significant depression/anxiety wer…

This study tested a new program called IMPROVE, designed to help college students who drink heavily and feel stressed. The program teaches skills to better handle anxiety and uncertainty, aiming to reduce the urge to use alcohol as a coping method. Researchers compared the progra…

This study tested a special, metal-free sensor mat placed under a patient's back during an MRI scan. The mat measured the patient's breathing rate and heart rate to see if these signals could reliably detect anxiety or claustrophobia. Researchers compared these measurements to st…

This study tested an online mentoring program designed to prevent serious problems like depression, anxiety, substance use, and violence among transgender and gender minority teens. The program connected 56 youth, aged 14 to 18, with adult mentors from similar backgrounds for sev…

This study tested a family program designed to prevent mental illness in teenage girls who were recently forced to flee Venezuela for Colombia. The program involved the girls' entire family, including male siblings and caregivers, to create a more supportive home environment. Res…

This study tested two new types of brief online messages designed to encourage COVID-19 vaccination, specifically for adults with anxiety or depression who are less likely to get the shot. Researchers compared these new approaches—one using storytelling to counter misinformation …

This study tested a new online program called HOPE-AF, designed to prevent depression in people diagnosed with atrial fibrillation (AF), a common heart rhythm problem. The program was therapist-assisted and personalized, targeting specific risk factors like stress or loneliness. …

This study tested whether a single group therapy session could help prevent depression and anxiety in women recently forced from their homes by the war in Ukraine. The therapy, called Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), taught skills to manage difficult thoughts and feelings…

This study tested whether a single dose of the medication midazolam could reduce anxiety in patients before breast cancer surgery. Researchers compared 124 female patients who received either midazolam or a placebo (saltwater injection) before their procedure. The goal was to see…

This study tested whether taking daily omega-3 fish oil supplements could help reduce feelings of stress, anxiety, and depression, and improve memory and sleep quality. For three months, 64 stressed Saudi adults took either omega-3 capsules or a placebo pill, without knowing whic…

This study tested whether using virtual reality glasses or listening to white noise could help adults feel less pain and anxiety when getting an IV placed. Researchers randomly assigned 76 adult patients to use VR, listen to white noise, or receive standard care during the proced…

This study tested whether a special preparation program for children and their parents could reduce anxiety in kids aged 5 to 12 before scheduled surgery. Researchers enrolled 50 children and their parents to see if guided preparation for being together in the operating room woul…

This study tested whether using a peanut-shaped exercise ball during labor helps reduce anxiety and pain. It involved 163 first-time mothers in labor. Researchers compared pain and anxiety levels between women who used the ball and those who did not to see if it made a difference…

This project aimed to adapt and test a group therapy program designed to help breast and ovarian cancer survivors manage their fear of the cancer coming back. First, researchers culturally adapted the therapy materials for Turkey. Then, they tested the adapted program by comparin…

This study tested whether using virtual reality (VR) goggles during tooth extractions could reduce patient anxiety. 119 adults were split into two groups: one used VR headsets showing a moving landscape during their procedure, while the other did not. Researchers measured anxiety…

This study tested a new mobile app designed to support student veterans who have mental health conditions like depression or PTSD. The app, called VetEd, helps users build academic skills, manage mental health, and find campus and VA resources. Researchers worked with 15 veterans…

This study tested whether visual or sensory distraction tools could help reduce anxiety and pain in young children during dental injections. Researchers compared 100 children aged 4-6 who received either visual distraction, sensory distraction, or no distraction during their dent…

This Stanford University study tested whether virtual reality headsets could help reduce anxiety in parents while their children underwent medical procedures. Nearly 500 parents participated, comparing VR distraction against standard care without technology. Researchers measured …

This study tested whether a simple, guided meditation practice could help people on long-term dialysis feel less anxious and more spiritually at peace. 58 adult patients were randomly assigned to either practice a 15-minute guided meditation or just rest quietly during their dial…

This study tested whether using virtual reality (VR) relaxation exercises could help reduce psychological distress and anxiety in adults with primary brain tumors. Researchers mailed VR headsets to 61 participants to use at home, focusing on the stressful time around their medica…

This study tested a simple, secure website called Adhere.ly, designed to help therapists give and track practice exercises (homework) to their clients between therapy sessions. Researchers compared standard therapy to therapy that used this digital tool. The goal was to see if us…

This study tested an 8-week text messaging program designed to help young adults (ages 18-25) who experience depression and anxiety but are not interested in traditional therapy. Researchers compared a personalized text message system that adapted to each person's needs against a…

This small pilot study explored whether using virtual reality (VR) goggles during the pre-surgery oxygen-breathing period could help reduce patient anxiety. Researchers enrolled 46 adults having elective surgery to test if VR immersion was practical and if it lowered anxiety leve…

This study tested a 9-session therapy program designed to help people living with HIV quit smoking. The program specifically addresses anxiety and depression, which are common challenges that can make quitting harder. Researchers compared this therapy to standard care and another…

This study tested a mobile app designed to help people with glaucoma manage the anxiety and depression that can come with their diagnosis. Researchers worked with 28 patients to develop and refine the app, which uses Acceptance and Commitment Therapy techniques. The goal was to c…

This study tested a special phone-based therapy program called MAC, designed to help manage anxiety. It was for patients aged 65+ with certain cancers and their primary caregivers, with at least one of them reporting significant anxiety. The goal was to see if this structured the…

This study tested whether a 4-week program called 'Dance-Walk' could help adults feel better mentally and physically. Researchers compared 117 adults who either started the program right away or waited, measuring their body awareness, energy levels, and mental health symptoms. Th…

This study tested a 5-week online group program designed to help parents and guardians of children with rare diseases manage their stress, anxiety, and depression. Eight participants joined weekly 90-minute video sessions to learn coping skills and connect with others in similar …

This study tested whether watching calming nature videos through a virtual reality headset could help patients feel less pain and anxiety during a common heart imaging test called coronary angiography. 90 adults scheduled for the procedure were randomly assigned to either use VR …

This study tested whether learning self-hypnosis could help people with severe COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) better manage their anxiety and feelings of breathlessness. 133 hospitalized patients in a pulmonary rehabilitation program were randomly assigned to learn …

This study tested whether a simple mandala coloring activity could help reduce stress and anxiety in mothers whose newborn babies were hospitalized in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). Researchers enrolled 72 mothers and had half of them complete a 40-minute coloring sessi…

This study tested whether using virtual reality (VR) glasses during surgery could help patients feel less anxious and more comfortable. Researchers compared 84 adults having hernia surgery with spinal anesthesia—one group watched videos through VR glasses during the operation, wh…

This study tested whether giving families a hospital diary to write in during their child's pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) stay could improve mental health outcomes. Researchers enrolled 431 family members of children in four Brazilian PICUs to see if the diaries reduced an…

This study tested whether using a virtual reality headset could help reduce anxiety in adults before elective surgery. Researchers compared the VR experience to standard care for 233 patients. The goal was to see if this non-drug approach could lower pre-surgery worry and improve…

This study tested whether listening to music could help reduce anxiety and distress in men receiving a specific type of prostate cancer treatment. 60 patients were split into two groups: one listened to instrumental music during treatment, while the other received standard care w…

This study tested whether a cannabidiol (CBD) solution taken under the tongue could help reduce anxiety in adults. Forty-six participants with moderate to severe anxiety used the CBD solution or a placebo three times daily for four weeks, in addition to their normal treatments. R…

This study tested whether non-drug therapies could help people on long-term dialysis feel less anxious and tired. Researchers compared the effects of listening to live music or interacting with a robotic parrot during treatment sessions. The goal was to find new ways to support p…

This study tested whether a mindfulness and social-emotional learning program called MindUP could help reduce feelings of depression, anxiety, and stress in orphaned teenage boys living in institutions in Pakistan. The program involved structured weekly sessions over several week…

This small pilot study tested whether a non-drug, wearable device that gently stimulates the ear could help manage anxiety in teenagers with autism. Ten participants, aged 12-17, learned to use the device at home twice daily for four weeks. The main goal was to check if this appr…

This study tested if using a simple stress ball could help pregnant women feel less anxious and more comfortable during a routine non-stress test (NST), which monitors the baby's well-being. Researchers compared 70 pregnant women who used a stress ball during the test to those wh…

This study aimed to understand and potentially reduce anxiety in patients undergoing Mohs surgery, a common outpatient procedure for skin cancer. Researchers compared anxiety levels between first-time patients and those returning for another surgery. They also tested whether read…

This study tested whether inhaling lavender essential oil could help reduce anxiety and pain as a complementary therapy. 68 participants with moderate to severe pain were randomly assigned to inhale either diluted lavender oil or plain water (a placebo) for 30 minutes. Researcher…

This study tested whether certain health and wellness products could help reduce feelings of anxiety. 500 adults in the United States participated online for 7 weeks, taking either an active product or a placebo without knowing which one. Researchers measured changes in anxiety, …

This study tested whether a special support program helps young men successfully return to society after prison. The program provided therapy for past trauma and practical help with jobs and housing. Researchers wanted to see if this combination improved mental well-being and sta…

This study tested whether a brief acupressure session could help patients feel less anxious, embarrassed, and fearful during an invasive urodynamic test, which assesses bladder function. 68 adult patients were randomly assigned to receive either acupressure at specific points or …

This study tested whether positive, encouraging communication from doctors during colonoscopy can reduce patients' pain and anxiety when sedation isn't used. Researchers compared 102 adults who received either supportive verbal suggestions or standard care during their procedures…

This study tested whether using a simple hand fan could help people with COPD feel less short of breath and improve their mood. 59 patients were split into two groups: one used a fan for 10 minutes daily for six weeks, while the other received standard care. Researchers measured …

This study tested whether a simple, ready-made coloring activity could reduce anxiety and fear in children before circumcision surgery. Researchers worked with 50 children aged 5-10, comparing a group that colored before the procedure to a group that did not. They measured the ch…

This study tested whether a faith-based mobile app could help improve mental health and well-being for university students. 450 students were asked to use the PRAY.COM app for at least 10 minutes daily for 8 weeks. Researchers measured if the app was easy to use and acceptable, a…

This study tested whether a non-drug therapy using sound and brainwave monitoring could help reduce long-term stress in healthcare workers. 94 participants who reported significant stress received either ongoing 'tune-up' sessions of the therapy or usual care after an initial tre…

This study tested whether wearing virtual reality (VR) glasses during a common kidney stone treatment could help patients feel less pain and anxiety. Researchers compared 70 patients receiving the shock wave treatment, with some using VR glasses and others receiving standard care…

This study tested whether wearing virtual reality (VR) glasses could help reduce pain and anxiety for women getting a copper intrauterine device (IUD) inserted. 70 women were randomly assigned to either use VR glasses during the procedure or receive standard care without VR. Rese…

This study tested whether mandala art therapy could help people feel less anxious and more comfortable after receiving a kidney transplant from a living donor. Researchers worked with 80 transplant recipients, giving some a series of mandala drawing sessions while others did not.…

This study tested whether using the JoyPop mobile app could help college students better manage their emotions and improve their mental wellbeing. 160 students aged 18-25 were randomly assigned to either use the app or receive no intervention. Researchers measured changes in emot…

This study tested whether watching 360° virtual reality movies could help reduce fear and anxiety in cancer patients about to begin radiation therapy. Researchers enrolled 292 adults with breast, lung, prostate, head and neck cancers, or brain tumors. Patients watched VR movies s…

This study tested whether having a live musician play in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) could help patients feel better. Researchers wanted to see if the music reduced patients' pain and anxiety, and if it was helpful for their families and the medical staff. They measured how pat…

This study tested whether fun, structured play activities could help reduce anxiety for children getting chemotherapy and their parents. 62 children aged 4-10 and their parents participated. The children played age-appropriate games during their treatment, and anxiety levels for …

This study tested whether virtual reality (VR) or a muscle relaxation technique works better to reduce anxiety and improve focus in patients recovering in a cardiac care unit. Researchers compared 158 patients who received either VR sessions or guided relaxation exercises. The go…

This study tested whether wearing glasses with colored lenses (green, red, or blue) could help reduce anxiety and pain for people having a tooth pulled. Researchers measured changes in anxiety, pain, heart rate, and stress hormones in 84 participants before and after they wore th…

This study tested whether wearing augmented reality glasses could help children feel less pain and anxiety during a common dental injection. Researchers compared four different distraction methods, including showing movies or video games through the glasses, in 108 children aged …

This study tested if letting critically ill patients on breathing machines control their own sedation medicine (using a button) works better than having nurses manage it. Researchers wanted to see if this self-management approach could reduce patient anxiety, shorten the time nee…

This study tested whether a short, calming virtual reality (VR) experience could help lower blood pressure and reduce anxiety for people at the doctor's office. 79 adults who were already scheduled for a special 24-hour blood pressure test tried a 5-minute VR nature scene during …

This study tested whether smelling lavender oil could help reduce anxiety in people waiting with a loved one in the emergency room. Researchers compared anxiety levels in 120 participants who either smelled lavender oil for a few minutes or received no special intervention. The g…

This study tested whether listening to music could help women feel less anxious and experience less pain during an embryo transfer procedure, which is part of IVF treatment. Researchers compared a group of women who listened to their choice of music during the procedure to a grou…

This study tested two different talk therapy approaches for adults experiencing mild anxiety and depression symptoms. Researchers compared a 10-week group therapy program against a single one-hour counseling session to see which helped more. The goal was to reduce symptoms and se…

This study tested whether listening to music during wound dressing changes helps reduce pain and anxiety for people with venous leg ulcers. Researchers compared two types of music (instrumental Turkish and Western) to no music in 97 patients. They measured pain and anxiety levels…

This small, exploratory study tested a single session using a virtual reality app with an AI-powered guide to provide mental health support. It involved 22 adults with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) who also had mild to moderate anxiety or depression. The main goal was to see i…

This study tested whether an online therapy program, specially adapted for Arabic-speaking refugee and migrant youth, could help reduce symptoms of anxiety, depression, and trauma. The program used internet-based cognitive behavioral therapy (iCBT) over 6-10 weeks. Researchers co…

This study tested a phone-based therapy program to help rural cancer survivors manage mental health challenges after treatment. Researchers offered different levels of support based on each person's symptoms, using workbooks and phone sessions. The goal was to reduce anxiety, dep…

This study tested whether adding real acupuncture to standard anxiety therapy (medication and counseling) works better than fake acupuncture plus standard therapy for reducing anxiety and improving quality of life in cancer patients. 38 adult cancer patients with moderate to seve…

This study tested whether a technique called Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT), which involves tapping on specific points on the body, could help students manage anxiety before exams. Researchers compared EFT to simple breathing exercises in 62 Somali students. The goal was to s…

This study tested whether letting a child choose and place a sticker on their skin during an IV needle insertion could reduce their pain and anxiety. Researchers compared 72 children aged 5-10 years who received the sticker to a group who did not. The goal was to find a simple, n…

This study tested whether two non-drug therapies could help improve mood and reduce anxiety in older adults living in care facilities. Researchers compared a sensory-based therapy (Snoezelen) and a memory-sharing therapy (Reminiscence) against a group receiving no special activit…

This study tested whether a 6-week dance fitness program could reduce stress and improve mental health in women. Researchers enrolled 46 women aged 30-60 and compared those who did the dance program to a waitlist control group. They measured stress levels, anxiety, depression, an…

This study aimed to see if a 50/50 mix of oxygen and nitrous oxide (sometimes called 'laughing gas') could safely reduce pain and anxiety in children aged 1 to 16 during minor procedures like getting an IV or stitches. Researchers observed 100 children to measure their pain level…

This study tested whether playing a short, story-based digital game during dialysis treatments could help patients feel better. Researchers wanted to see if the game could reduce anxiety, improve knowledge about healthy eating, and help patients stick to their treatment plans. Th…

This study tested whether a non-drug therapy called acupressure could help patients in the intensive care unit (ICU). Researchers worked with 60 ICU patients to see if applying pressure to specific points on the body could improve their pain, anxiety, sleep quality, and vital sig…

This small pilot study tested whether an 8-week SKY breath meditation program could reduce stress and improve well-being in healthy adults. Researchers enrolled 45 participants to measure changes in stress levels, sleep, mood, and even biological markers in the blood before and a…

This study tested whether using virtual reality (VR) headsets could help reduce anxiety in patients waiting for a heart catheterization procedure. Researchers enrolled 156 patients and randomly assigned some to use VR while waiting, comparing their anxiety levels to patients rece…

This study tested whether using virtual reality (VR) glasses could help patients with severe COPD (chronic lung disease) who are in the intensive care unit (ICU). Fifty patients were split into two groups: one group used VR for 30 minutes each night for a week, while the other re…

This study tested whether simple, non-drug methods could make the platelet donation process easier for people. Researchers had 102 first-time platelet donors try squeezing a stress ball or listening to instrumental music during their donation, while a third group received standar…

This study tested whether providing education about pain and a pre-surgery check-up could help reduce anxiety, stress, and pain for women undergoing a planned hysterectomy. Researchers worked with 62 women having this surgery at a hospital in Mexico. They compared outcomes betwee…

This study tested whether shining low-level laser or LED light on specific pressure points on the hand could help people relax, sleep better, and feel less anxious. Researchers compared the two light sources in 120 participants, measuring changes in heart rate and the body's ener…

This study tested whether using a virtual reality (VR) headset for distraction could help control the gag reflex in adults during routine dental X-rays. Thirty patients with moderate to severe gagging had X-rays taken on both sides of their mouth—one side with standard care and t…

This study looked at whether two simple, non-drug methods could help people with burns feel better during painful dressing changes. Researchers tested if doing breathing exercises or squeezing a stress ball could reduce pain and anxiety for 210 adult outpatients. They measured pa…

This study tested whether listening to music could help children feel less pain during a skin allergy test and make their parents less anxious. Researchers compared two types of music: special 'solfeggio' sound frequencies and traditional Turkish classical music. The trial involv…

This study tested whether a simple self-acupressure technique could help nurses manage work-related stress, anxiety, and burnout. 160 nurses with signs of emotional distress were randomly assigned to either perform daily acupressure on their hands or continue their usual coping m…

This study tested if using a patient's genetic information (DNA) to guide the choice of antidepressant medication works better than standard doctor-led care for cancer patients. 99 adults with cancer and symptoms of depression or anxiety were randomly assigned to either get a DNA…

This study tested whether a simple, home-based exercise program could help reduce feelings of depression and anxiety in people undergoing long-term kidney dialysis. Over 50 patients were split into two groups: one followed a 6-month exercise plan, while the other received their u…

This study tested whether taking capsules containing healthy gut bacteria from a donor (fecal microbiota transplantation) could improve sleep for people with chronic insomnia. 80 participants were randomly given either the real treatment capsules or identical-looking placebo caps…

This study tested whether a simple hand massage could help reduce anxiety and increase comfort for patients about to undergo weight-loss surgery. Researchers compared 90 patients who received a hand massage before their procedure to those who received only standard care. They mea…

This study tested whether a special therapy program for anxiety could work well in local community centers for autistic children and teens. Researchers adapted a proven talk therapy to be more accessible and studied if families and clinics could use it. The goal was to see if thi…

This study tested whether listening to music at home before colon cancer surgery could reduce patients' anxiety. 116 patients were randomly assigned to either listen to music three times daily for a week before surgery or receive usual care. Researchers measured anxiety, pain, st…

This study tested whether listening to slow-tempo music could help prevent or reduce delirium in older adults who are critically ill and on a breathing machine in the ICU. Delirium is a serious state of confusion linked to longer hospital stays and future memory problems. Researc…

This study tested whether using aromatherapy during quizzes and tests could help reduce anxiety and improve academic performance for college students. Researchers measured 20 students' anxiety levels, heart rate, blood pressure, and test scores before and after using aromatherapy…

This study tested whether a simple mandala coloring activity could help people hospitalized for depression and anxiety. Fifty-one adult patients participated in eight coloring sessions. Researchers measured changes in their stress, anxiety, depression levels, and overall quality …

This study tested whether taking a virtual tour of a museum using VR glasses could help patients feel better during chemotherapy. Sixty-four patients receiving chemo were split into two groups: one group took weekly 20-minute VR museum tours for five weeks, while the other receiv…

This study developed and tested a web-based app designed to help people manage symptoms of depression and anxiety. It involved 50 adults in low and middle-income countries who had access to a smartphone or computer. The main goal was to see if the app was easy to use, acceptable …

This study tested whether a six-week online therapy program could help university students in Malaysia better manage their emotions, anxiety, and depression. Researchers compared a group receiving Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) to a group that did not receive therapy dur…

This study tested whether short, guided breathing videos could help reduce anxiety and improve mood and confidence in Palestinian teenagers. Researchers worked with 213 teens in an after-school program, comparing different versions of the breathing exercises to a control group. T…

This small pilot study explored whether a mindfulness-based therapy could help people with atrial fibrillation (AFib) who also experience significant anxiety. Thirteen participants with AFib and high anxiety sensitivity received four to five individual sessions. The goal was to s…

This small pilot study tested a new type of group talk therapy called Terebenin's Method to see if it helps reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression. The therapy combines acting out scenarios, body awareness, and exploring family patterns over 8 weekly sessions. Researchers comp…

This study tested whether a voice-based artificial intelligence coach named Lumen could teach problem-solving skills as effectively as a human coach to help adults with mild-to-moderate depression and anxiety. 200 participants were randomly assigned to receive coaching from the A…

This study tested if listening to nature sounds while getting out of bed could help patients feel better after gallbladder surgery. Researchers worked with 70 adults to see if this simple method reduced their anxiety, pain, and stress levels. They measured these feelings using qu…

This study tested a 10-week group program called the Sensory Awareness Program (SAP) for adults with severe mental health problems who experience anxiety. The program teaches people to use their senses—like touch, sound, and sight—to help calm their body's stress response and man…

This study tested whether a brief, interactive conversation with an AI chatbot could help improve mental health for young students in India. About 380 students in grades 6-8 used a 45-minute chatbot program designed to teach a 'growth mindset'—the belief that abilities can improv…

This study tested whether a modern program based on ancient Tibetan Dream Yoga practices is practical to run. The program combined guided meditation, virtual reality, and techniques to become aware during dreams (lucid dreaming). Researchers enrolled 25 adults to see if people co…

This study tested whether sharing a short, immersive nature experience in virtual reality could help hospice patients and their caregivers. Twenty-six people (patients and their caregivers together) tried a personalized 5-15 minute VR session. Researchers measured if this shared …

This study tested whether mindfulness training could help reduce stress, anxiety, and depression in people living with type 2 diabetes. Researchers worked with 140 participants, randomly assigning half to receive mindfulness sessions and half to a comparison group. They measured …

This study tested whether a special calming communication technique, delivered by a trained nurse, could help men feel less anxious and experience less pain during a prostate biopsy. About 100 men were randomly assigned to receive either this special support or standard care duri…

This study tested whether adding verbal guidance to relaxing music could help reduce anxiety in university students. Researchers compared three approaches: music with AI-generated guidance using Eastern imagery, music with standard relaxation guidance, and music alone. They measu…

This study looked at whether playing music and having mothers listen to positive affirmations during a planned cesarean section could help reduce their anxiety and improve breastfeeding. Researchers compared three groups of mothers: one group received both affirmations and music,…

This study tested whether showing patients a video about a prostate biopsy procedure could reduce their pain and anxiety during the test. Researchers compared three groups: one that got standard verbal instructions, one that saw a video, and one that saw still pictures. They foun…

This study tested whether showing children a short video about what to expect could make them less scared and anxious before getting an endoscopy. Researchers worked with 90 children, aged 9 to 12, who were having the procedure for the first time. They compared kids who watched t…

This study tested two simple distraction methods to help children aged 7-12 cope with the pain, fear, and anxiety of getting a blood draw. Researchers compared having kids blow bubbles with a material-free technique using conversation and positive reinforcement. The goal was to s…

This study looked back at data from a hospital program that used virtual reality (VR) to help children feel less anxious before surgery. It involved 168 children aged 6 to 15. The main goal was to see if the VR experience lowered the kids' anxiety, measured by their heart rate, b…

This study tested whether different ways of providing information could reduce anxiety in adults needing wisdom tooth removal. Researchers compared standard written information, clinician-prepared materials, and information generated by an AI (ChatGPT). They measured anxiety leve…

This study tested if listening to relaxing music before and during a common prostate surgery could help patients feel less anxious and have less pain afterward. 135 men were randomly assigned to either listen to instrumental music or receive standard care without music. Researche…

This study tested two simple, drug-free methods to help adults feel less pain and anxiety during routine blood draws. Researchers compared using a virtual reality headset to practicing deep breathing exercises. They found that deep breathing was better at reducing pain, while bot…

This study tested a program called Mood Lifters, where college students lead weekly group meetings to help their peers manage mental health. The goal was to see if this low-cost, peer-led approach could effectively reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety in undergraduate studen…

This study tested if a mind-body technique called Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT) could reduce anxiety in patients receiving preventive foot wound care after surgery. 60 patients were split into two groups: one learned and practiced EFT for a month, while the other received sta…

This study tested whether putting a colorful undersea-themed cover on the examination table could reduce fear and anxiety in children getting a painless heart test (ECG). Researchers compared 80 children, aged 3 to 12, with half using the special cover and half using a standard t…

This study tested a new online group counseling program called AMOR, designed specifically for pregnant women and new mothers with ADHD. The main goal was to see if the program was practical and acceptable, and to check for any early signs that it might help with ADHD symptoms, s…

This study tested whether a combined program of talk therapy and careful medication review could help reduce feelings of depression and anxiety in adults aged 60 and older who were having major heart surgery. It compared this special program to the usual care patients receive. Re…

This study tested whether an 8-week mindfulness program could help parents of children with autism. The program involved weekly group sessions with education and meditation practices. Researchers measured changes in parents' levels of depression, anxiety, stress, and hopelessness…

This study tested whether listening to relaxing music could help reduce pain and anxiety for cancer patients receiving palliative care. Researchers compared 32 patients who either listened to 30 minutes of instrumental Turkish music or rested quietly. The goal was to see if this …

This study tested a short, creative nursing session designed to help reduce anxiety in university students. Thirty-six students with moderate anxiety were randomly assigned to either try the session or be in a control group. The session, inspired by a scene from Harry Potter, gui…

This study tested whether using virtual reality (VR) to show patients what to expect could reduce their anxiety before a specific heart valve repair procedure. 75 adults scheduled for the procedure were given either standard information or standard info plus a VR experience. Rese…

This study tested whether practicing Qigong, a gentle mind-body exercise, could help reduce anxiety and depression in people hospitalized for depression. Researchers compared 70 patients who did Qigong exercises to those who did not. The goal was to see if this non-drug approach …

This study tested a new online therapy program designed to support transgender and gender-diverse people in Romania. The program aimed to reduce depression, anxiety, and behaviors linked to HIV risk through 16 weekly video sessions with a trained therapist. Researchers worked wit…

This study tested whether a single-day group workshop could help veterans dealing with the combined effects of mild brain injury, chronic pain, PTSD, depression, or anxiety. The workshop taught life skills to help manage distress and improve daily functioning, aiming to be more a…

This study tested whether a brief, 14-day online mindfulness training could help reduce stress, anxiety, and depression in Indonesian university students. Researchers enrolled 426 students and compared the mindfulness program to a psychoeducation course and a waitlist group. The …

This study tested whether using virtual reality (VR) during an endoscopy procedure could help reduce patients' pain and anxiety. It involved 78 adults who were awake during their upper endoscopy. Researchers measured pain and anxiety levels, as well as vital signs like heart rate…

This study tested whether a 6-week group training program focused on attention and breathing exercises could improve thinking skills and reduce anxiety in older adults. 120 participants aged 60-90 who had both anxiety symptoms and concerns about their memory were randomly assigne…

This study tested whether a mind-body technique called Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT) could help women feel less pain and anxiety after a planned cesarean section. Researchers worked with 60 first-time mothers, teaching some of them EFT shortly after their surgery. The goal w…

This study looked at two common ways to help children feel less anxious before a stomach or colon exam (endoscopy). Researchers compared letting kids watch short videos to giving them a calming nasal spray. They measured how anxious the kids were, how much sedation medicine they …

This study tested whether using virtual reality (VR) glasses or listening to music could help reduce pain and anxiety for burn patients during painful dressing changes. It involved 120 adult patients with burns, comparing these methods to standard care. The goal was to see if the…

This study tested whether spending time with live animals could help reduce pain and anxiety for cancer patients in palliative care during a specific needle procedure. Researchers compared the effects of interacting with parrots, fish, or turtles to a group with no animal interac…

This study tested whether Tony Robbins' Rapid Planning Method (RPM) improves people's mood, motivation, and productivity compared to basic journaling. About 140 adults were split into two groups: one attended the 3-day virtual RPM training, while the other simply kept a weekly to…

This study tested whether a new, brief therapy program could help Veterans manage anxiety symptoms better than the usual care they receive. The program, called Veterans Anxiety Skills Training (VAST), offered up to six short counseling sessions focused on practical coping skills.…

This study tested whether a computer-assisted numbing device causes less pain and anxiety than a standard dentist-administered shot during wisdom tooth removal. Forty healthy adults had both lower wisdom teeth removed, with each side receiving a different numbing technique. Resea…

This study tested whether creative activities like coloring mandalas or listening to music could help reduce anxiety about the future and improve overall happiness in nursing students. Researchers compared 90 students who did these activities to those who did not. The goal was to…

This study tested whether a simple relaxation technique could help nursing students feel less depressed, anxious, and stressed. Researchers divided 104 nursing students into two groups: one group practiced progressive muscle relaxation exercises for four weeks, while the other di…

This study tested whether watching relaxing videos through virtual reality (VR) glasses could help reduce anxiety in patients waiting for abdominal surgery. Researchers compared anxiety, stress, and heart rate in 96 patients who either used VR or did not during the 20-25 minute w…

This study tested whether group music therapy could help improve the emotional well-being of university students. 120 students were randomly assigned to either participate in active music-making sessions, guided music listening sessions, or to a waitlist group for 6 weeks. Resear…

This study tested whether three different non-medication approaches could help reduce anxiety and depression symptoms in college students. Fifty-five students were randomly assigned to try either external qigong (a gentle energy practice), mindfulness meditation, or an educationa…

This study tested whether a brain-training technique called neurofeedback could help reduce anxiety and psychological distress linked to heavy smartphone and internet use in young adults. Forty participants aged 18-30 were split into two groups. One group received 25 neurofeedbac…

This study tested whether a structured nursing care program could help reduce common and distressing side effects of chemotherapy in people with colon cancer. It focused on easing fatigue, nerve pain in hands and feet (peripheral neuropathy), and anxiety. The program was based on…

This study tested whether two types of group talk therapy could help people with multiple sclerosis (MS) feel better and think more clearly. Researchers compared a cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) program and a psychophysiological regulation therapy to standard care in 140 part…

This study tested whether simple distractions like playing digital games or watching cartoons could help children feel less pain, fear, and anxiety while getting stitches in the emergency room. Researchers worked with 90 children aged 5 to 10, dividing them into groups that eithe…

This study tested whether creating mandala art could help women with gynecologic cancers feel less anxious and more emotionally capable around the time of their surgery. Researchers randomly assigned 84 patients to either do mandala painting or receive standard care. They measure…

This study tested whether a single one-hour session of a specially designed therapy video game could improve mental health. Researchers compared the game, based on Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), to a regular neutral game in 302 adults with mild to moderate depression, a…

This study tested if a simple writing exercise could help reduce feelings of anxiety and depression. For 14 days, young adults wrote about their deepest thoughts and feelings. Researchers compared whether writing as if talking to yourself or to a loved one worked better.

This study tested whether a daily dietary supplement made from microalgae could improve gut health, reduce anxiety, and support immune function. It involved 62 healthy adults aged 18-55 who experienced mild to moderate digestive discomfort. Participants took either the supplement…

This study tested whether listening to slow, calming music could reduce anxiety and pain for patients getting injections in their eye. 144 adult patients were randomly split into two groups: one listened to piano music before and during the procedure, while the other did not. Res…

This study tested if using a simple stress ball during and after a planned C-section could help new mothers. Researchers wanted to see if this easy, non-drug method could reduce anxiety and pain, and make it easier to start breastfeeding. The study involved 109 women who had elec…

This study tested whether medical hypnosis could help patients feel less pain and anxiety during a common nerve and muscle function test called an ENMG. Researchers compared patients who received hypnosis during the test to those who received standard care. The goal was to see if…

This study tested whether showing patients a virtual tour of the operating room before their orthopedic surgery could help reduce their anxiety. Researchers worked with 70 adults who had no prior surgery experience. They measured changes in anxiety and satisfaction levels to see …

This study aimed to find out which type of cannabis oil works best to relieve common symptoms in cancer patients. Researchers tested three different oil formulas (with varying levels of THC and CBD) against a placebo oil in 91 patients. Each patient tried all the oils in a random…

This study tested whether using virtual reality (VR) could help patients feel less pain and anxiety during the removal of a catheter from the groin after a heart imaging test. One hundred patients were randomly assigned to either use a VR headset during the procedure or receive s…

This study tested whether a 10-week Zumba exercise program could help reduce feelings of anxiety and depression. Forty healthy adults aged 40 to 65 were randomly assigned to either take Zumba classes three times a week or continue their normal routine. Researchers measured partic…

This study tested whether listening to music could help patients feel better after major heart surgery. Researchers worked with 60 adults who had coronary artery bypass grafting to see if music therapy could reduce their post-surgery pain and anxiety. The goal was to provide a si…

This study tested whether using a virtual reality (VR) headset during surgery could help patients feel less anxious and experience less pain. It involved 100 adults who were getting a pacemaker, defibrillator, or similar heart device implanted. Half the patients used a VR headset…

This study tested a program called PRISM, designed to help teens and young adults (ages 12-24) with advanced cancer. The program taught skills like stress management, goal-setting, and finding meaning to improve their quality of life and reduce anxiety and depression. Researchers…

This study tested whether structured outdoor activities in nature could help reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression in teenagers. Researchers worked with 60 adolescents, comparing those who received the nature therapy program to a group that did not. The goal was to see if spe…

This study tested whether walking with a certified therapy dog helps adult trauma patients move more during their hospital stay. Each of the 64 participants took two walks—one with a dog and one without—to compare pain, anxiety, and walking distance. The goal was to see if animal…

This study tested whether a non-invasive sound therapy program could help reduce symptoms of PTSD and anxiety. 45 therapy clients either received the 5-hour listening program or continued their usual therapy for comparison. Researchers measured changes in symptoms, body awareness…

This study tested whether applying acupressure (a type of massage on specific points) could help patients feel less pain and anxiety during a urodynamics test, which checks how the bladder works. 68 adult patients were randomly assigned to receive either acupressure or standard c…

This study tested whether applying acupressure (gentle pressure on specific body points) could help reduce anxiety and stabilize blood pressure and heart rate in patients about to undergo bladder removal surgery. Researchers compared real acupressure to a placebo version in 60 pa…

This study aimed to understand the connection between physical activity and mental health in medical residents. Researchers surveyed 206 French residents at one point in time, asking about their exercise habits and symptoms of anxiety, depression, and burnout. The goal was to see…

This study tested whether having a trained facilitator visit older adults at home to help them complete a medical preference form (called a POST or POLST form) would improve the match between the care they want and the care they actually receive. It involved 389 older adults livi…

This study aimed to understand how the COVID-19 pandemic affected the lives of adults with sickle cell disease (SCD) in the United States. Researchers surveyed 186 participants online to learn about changes in their stress, anxiety, pain, sleep, and use of healthcare services dur…

This study tested whether simple online tools could encourage LGBTQ+ youth to seek help for depression and anxiety. Researchers gave 81 participants different combinations of videos and online resources, delivered through a private Discord group, over four weeks. The goal was to …

This study aimed to understand how anxious people with arthritis felt about COVID-19, comparing those on different types of arthritis medications. Researchers surveyed 200 adult patients by phone during the pandemic, asking about their worries and experiences. The goal was to see…

This study aimed to understand how different types of virtual reality (VR) games affect pain sensitivity. Researchers at Stanford University tested 265 healthy adults to see if playing an active VR game versus watching a passive VR experience changed their tolerance to heat and p…

This study aimed to understand how the COVID-19 pandemic affected the mental health of nursing home staff in France. Researchers surveyed 501 workers to measure rates of post-traumatic stress, depression, and burnout. The goal was to document the psychological impact of working t…

This study aimed to understand how inflammation might affect feelings of pleasure and motivation in older adults, particularly those with anxiety. Researchers gave 40 participants aged 60-80 either a substance that causes temporary inflammation or a placebo, then measured their m…

This study aimed to understand how healthy young brains voluntarily suppress negative or unpleasant memories. Researchers used EEG brain scans and computer tasks to measure attention and brain activity while participants tried to block certain memories. The goal was to map the br…

This study aimed to understand *how* a non-drug therapy helps children with chronic stomach pain and anxiety. Researchers used brain scans (fMRI) to see changes in brain activity and connections in 49 children aged 11-16. The children either received a 6-week therapy program comb…

This study tested whether a vibrating device could distract healthy adults from feeling mild pinprick pain. Researchers enrolled 200 participants without pain conditions to measure their pain thresholds and anxiety levels during the tests. The goal was to gather basic knowledge a…

This study aimed to measure how anxious nurses feel while working in psychiatric hospitals and mental health centers. Researchers surveyed 543 experienced psychiatric nurses to understand their stress levels and identify what factors at work contribute to anxiety. The goal was to…

This study aimed to figure out the best way to offer mental health help to people seeing an orthopedic doctor for long-term back or neck pain. Researchers asked 30 patients and their doctors about their needs and then had patients try a mental health app and a printed resource gu…

This study aimed to understand if anxiety is linked to balance problems, muscle stiffness, and movement difficulties in children with cerebral palsy. Researchers measured anxiety, balance, and muscle tone in 40 children aged 4 to 8 years old. The goal was to gather knowledge to p…

This study aimed to understand how people with anxiety can learn to control their emotions by seeing real-time pictures of their own brain activity. Researchers used a brain scanner to give 21 participants feedback, comparing a real feedback group to a fake feedback group. The go…

This study compared two types of early braces for children ages 6-12: clear aligners and traditional removable appliances. Researchers measured how each type affected the children's speech, comfort, anxiety, and oral hygiene over two weeks. The goal was to help parents and dentis…

This study aimed to understand how hypnosis works in the brain and body. Researchers measured brain waves, heart rate, and other signals in 50 healthy adults during a standard hypnosis session. The goal was to gather data to help build a future AI tool that could monitor and pote…

This study aimed to understand how anxiety and poor sleep together affect the immune system and quality of life in people with colorectal cancer who are receiving chemotherapy. Researchers observed 103 patients, comparing blood tests and survey results between those with signific…

This study aimed to understand if the age when a woman goes through menopause is linked to her levels of anxiety and depression. Researchers compared 136 women who experienced natural menopause after age 40 with those who had early menopause (before 40). The goal was to gather in…

This study looked at whether a parent's anxiety before their young child's groin-area surgery affects the child's own anxiety before the operation and their pain levels afterward. Researchers measured anxiety and pain in 81 children aged 2-6 and their parents. The goal was to und…

This study tested whether a mobile phone app could help parents and caregivers of children with epilepsy. 72 participants in Canada were randomly assigned to either use the educational app for 7 weeks or receive standard clinic information. Researchers measured if using the app i…

This study aimed to understand the complex nature of dental pain by looking at connections between stress, inflammation, and pain signals. Researchers measured specific chemicals in saliva and tooth pulp from 72 adults with and without tooth pain. They also assessed participants'…

This study aimed to understand how people with high levels of anxiety process emotional faces, like fear or happiness. Researchers used brain scans (MRI) and computer tasks where participants identified facial expressions. The goal was to gather basic science information that cou…

This study aimed to understand how sleep affects a thinking pattern linked to anxiety in 10-13 year olds. Researchers tested if playing gentle sounds during sleep could influence how the brain processes and generalizes negative memories. The goal was to gather knowledge to inform…

This study tested whether giving cancer patients a 'Question Prompt List' (QPL) helps them feel more empowered and less anxious. Researchers surveyed and interviewed 96 patients and their healthcare providers in Turkey to see if using the list during appointments improved communi…